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Hypoparathyroidism: Care Instructions

Your Care Instructions

The parathyroid glands are found behind the thyroid gland in the neck. They release parathyroid hormone, which helps control how much calcium is in the blood. When these glands do not make or release enough of the hormone, the level of calcium in the blood can drop. This can cause many problems. These include belly pain, muscle spasms, and numbness and tingling in your hands, feet, and around the mouth.

The most common cause of this illness is an injury to the parathyroid glands during surgery on the neck. It happens most often after surgery on the thyroid gland.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse call line if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse call line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.

Take calcium and vitamin D tablets as directed by your doctor. You may have to take these for the rest of your life.

Eat a diet high in calcium. This includes plenty of dairy products, such as yogurt and cheese, and dark green vegetables.

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.